Israeli Chicken

Israeli Chicken Recipe - A Delicious Taste of Israel

Region / culture: Israel | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Israeli Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the tanginess of dijon mustard with the sweetness of orange juice and brown sugar. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, as it is easy to prepare and full of delicious flavors.

History

Israeli Chicken is a popular dish in Israel, known for its unique combination of flavors and ingredients. It is often served at festive occasions and family gatherings, as it is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress guests.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) of chicken
2 tbsp of dijon mustard
salt and pepper
1 onion, finely chopped
1 cup of orange juice
0.33 cup of brown sugar
2 tbsp of butter or margarine

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Coat the chicken with mustard and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Place the chicken in a baking dish.
Sprinkle with onion.
Mix orange juice and brown sugar together, then pour over the chicken.
Dot the chicken with butter or margarine.
Bake for 1 hour.
Pour the sauce into a saucepan.
Boil the sauce until it thickens.

Variations

Add chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Substitute honey for brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
Use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of chicken breasts for a more flavorful dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with mustard to ensure that the flavor is distributed throughout the dish.

- Be sure to sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper before baking to enhance the flavors.

- Basting the chicken with the sauce while it cooks will help keep it moist and flavorful.

- Boiling the sauce after baking will help thicken it and intensify the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Israeli Chicken can be served with rice, couscous, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Israeli Chicken is baked in the oven, which helps to lock in the flavors and keep the chicken moist and tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have dijon mustard, you can use regular mustard or honey mustard as a substitute. You can also use olive oil instead of margarine.

Make Ahead Tips

Israeli Chicken can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover the dish with foil, and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Israeli Chicken can be garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it on a platter with a side of rice or couscous for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Israeli Chicken pairs well with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of hummus and pita bread.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Israeli Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Israeli Chicken contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Israeli Chicken contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Israeli Chicken contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Israeli Chicken contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Israeli Chicken is a good source of vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

Israeli Chicken contains mustard and margarine, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Israeli Chicken is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Israeli Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With its unique combination of tangy mustard, sweet orange juice, and savory chicken, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Israeli Chicken. It was many years ago, during my travels through the bustling markets of Jerusalem. The air was filled with the rich aromas of spices and herbs, and I found myself drawn to a small food stall tucked away in a narrow alleyway.

As I approached the stall, a kind elderly woman greeted me with a warm smile and offered me a taste of her fragrant chicken dish. With just one bite, I was hooked. The flavors danced on my tongue, a perfect blend of tangy and savory, with a hint of sweetness from the dried fruit.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish. The woman, whose name was Rebecca, graciously agreed to teach me her family recipe. She explained each step with patience and precision, sharing the secrets that had been passed down through generations.

The first step was to marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a medley of spices including cumin, paprika, and turmeric. This would infuse the meat with a depth of flavor that would only deepen as it simmered in a rich tomato sauce.

Next, I learned how to sauté onions and bell peppers until they were soft and fragrant, adding a touch of sweetness to balance out the bold spices. Then came the addition of diced tomatoes, apricots, and prunes, creating a luscious sauce that would coat the tender chicken pieces.

As the dish simmered on the stove, filling my kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, Rebecca shared stories of her family and their traditions. She spoke of Friday night dinners filled with laughter and love, where this Israeli Chicken was always the centerpiece of the table.

I listened intently, soaking up every detail and committing the recipe to memory. I knew that this dish would become a cherished part of my own family's traditions, a way to connect to my roots and honor the flavors of a faraway land.

Finally, the moment of truth arrived. I lifted the lid of the pot and marveled at the sight before me. The chicken was tender and juicy, the sauce thick and vibrant with color. I took a bite, closing my eyes to savor the familiar flavors that now carried the weight of a new memory.

I knew then that this recipe would hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the day I stumbled upon a hidden gem in the heart of Jerusalem. I thanked Rebecca for her generosity and bid her farewell, knowing that I would carry her gift with me wherever my travels took me.

And so, as the years passed and my own family grew, I continued to make Israeli Chicken for special occasions and everyday meals alike. Each time I prepared the dish, I felt a connection to Rebecca and the traditions she had shared with me.

Now, as I pass down the recipe to my grandchildren, I hope that they too will feel the magic of this dish and the stories that accompany it. For in the act of cooking and sharing food, we carry on a legacy that transcends time and distance, linking us to our past and paving the way for our future.